I like these

[Slowhand Bob]

Guys, there are a few things that I really like and presses are great in my book.  Compared to a mallet and impact setting tools they are expensive and a bit slower but the return is a more consistent set and if many rivets/spots/snaps/etc are to be set the speed difference closes quickly.  And this leads into one I just found on Ebay-  http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140496583140&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT  and I have nothing to do with this beyond seeing it and bringing it to your attention.  Not sure I would go much higher though the new cost of the setters alone probably well exceed the current bid.  There is also an interesting stitching horse that I might add later, though I do think it is a bit on the high side.

Shortly before retiring I started obtaining various small presses for leather work whenever I thought the price was right and now  have at least a dozen preset for the particular task at hand.  Most are small enough to mount a couple or several on a single grinder type stand and this does not take a lot of room. 

[GunClick Rick]

How much does a stiching horse go for?There is one at an antique store here for 125.00 nice condition and seems to be nice and tight when i gave it a wiggle..

[Slowhand Bob]

Rick, I never had a real stitching horse but have used the small ones made for use with a chair.  These little ones did have limited use for me but not that often.  The one on Ebay is kinda a cross between a full blow horse and a lap model, perhaps this is what is referred to as a stitching poney?  I usually just sat in a comfortable chair and let the work rest in my lap.  I still have my old Lazy Boy in the new shop BUT I FEAR that it only get used for the occasional nap, while hiding from the wife, now days.  http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140498828894&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[Marshal Will Wingam]

I agree, Bob. Presses do a much better installation. I've botched many snaps and such with a mallet.

[Slowhand Bob]

Marshall, my dad always said I was most adaptable to a sledge hammer and it shows whenever finesse is called for on my part.  With a mallet, I will frequently lay a line 24 snaps tube over sideways, even in heavier 8-9oz leather, but a press will usually take it down in a nice roll even in the lighter weight leathers.

I watch Ebay regularly and though I see much of interest, I usually find the prices to be very high for shop use tools.  Though I have and use a couple of antiques, that is not an interest for me.

[Cliff Fendley]

That's probably a fair price Rick if it's in good shape. The brand may dictate it's value also. I've seen some old Randal's in good shape go for well more than that.